BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said improving the lives of farmers Dinajpur is possible through the expansion of agro-based industries and the export of local agricultural products, particularly Katari Bhog rice and litchi.

Speaking at an election rally at the Birampur Government College grounds in the afternoon, he announced plans to establish an agro-based industrial institution in the district to promote its traditional produce in the international market.

Tarique Rahman said exporting Katari Bhog rice and litchi would help farmers secure fair prices, create employment opportunities for unemployed youth and earn foreign exchange for the country.

Referring to Dinajpur as an agriculture-based region, the BNP chairman said targeted industrial support could transform the rural economy and strengthen farmers’ livelihoods.

He later described Dinajpur as emotionally close to his heart, saying he shares a “soul connection” with the people of the district.

“I am very happy today because, by the grace of Allah, I have come to my grandmother’s house after many years. This is my grandmother’s home. I have a soul connection with the people of this area,” he said.

As part of his election campaign, Tarique Rahman is visiting three northern districts — Thakurgaon, Nilphamari and Dinajpur — on Saturday (February 7).

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He arrived at the Birampur College grounds at 3:15 pm and began his speech at 3:38 pm, seeking votes for BNP’s electoral symbol, the sheaf of paddy.

The rally was presided over by District BNP President Advocate Mofazzal Hossain Dulal. District BNP Senior Vice President Md Mokarram Hossain, Vice President Khalequzzaman Babu, Dinajpur-3 constituency candidate Syed Jahangir Hossain, Dinajpur-4 candidate Akhtaruzzaman Mia, Dinajpur-5 candidate Barrister Kamruzzaman and Dinajpur-6 candidate Dr AZM Zahid Hossain also addressed the programme.